A CALL has gone out to donors, former donors and anyone who would like to give blood for the first time as the coronavirus outbreak and self-isolation has meant a drop in supply.

An NHS Blood and Transplant spokesperson said: "We need donors to keep donating as normal in Thurrock. Our sessions and donor centres are still open. Travel to blood donation sessions is essential to the NHS.

"Our centres are open but we are now collecting less blood. Our staff are putting extra safety measures in place for you to keep donating to make sure hospitals continue to receive the blood they need. Regular donation will help us to be well prepared to support the wider NHS for the impact of the coronavirus.

"We have seen an increase in calls from people asking if sessions are going ahead and people asking questions about coronavirus. We're putting in place extra safety measures on our sessions and safety is always our number one priority. We're asking donors to follow the latest advice on our website and app and the advice from the Government.

"We're regularly reviewing the situation and working closely with the Department of Health and Social Care, PHE, and the UK's other blood donation services."

People can 0300 123 23 23 or click HERE to book an appointment.